With over 19 years of rugby experience under his belt the lock has confirmed that he will retire at the end of the current season.
The Panteg born international has made over 130 appearances for Newport, one of which was against Neath in Newport’s Principality Cup Final win at the Millennium Stadium in May 2001, and over 100 for Newport Gwent Dragons.
The 38 year old made the move to regional rugby during the inception of the Men of Gwent in 2003 and made his debut against the Scarlets at Stradey Park in the 2003/04 Celtic League.
Gough made his 100th appearance for the Welsh region after returning in 2014/15, following stints at Ospreys and London Irish, and coming off the bench against Connacht at Rodney Parade.
During his time at the Ospreys he appeared in both league finals of the 2007/08 EDF Energy Cup and the 2009/10 Magners League in which they won both matches to take the titles.
Gough was also capped by Wales where he won 64 international caps between the years 1998-2010.
Talking about his retirement, Gough commented: “I have had such a long rugby career and I have been lucky that my body has allowed me to do so in the pro era.
“My career is something that I will look fondly on and I have no regrets through the good times and the bad. I am just thankful to both my family and friends who have had to put up with me over the years with all of my niggles and moans that I have gone through.
“I wouldn’t change anything I have done and all of the decisions I have made have been for the betterment of my career. I have enjoyed the welsh career that I have had as well as my stint at London Irish and will always have those memories.
“It’s been an honour and a privilege to play in front of the crowds and in many of the stadiums that I have done –coming up to nearly twenty years in the game.”
Newport Gwent Dragons director and former rugby manager of the region, Jim McCreedy added: “Ian is renowned as an uncompromising player and has made a huge impact at our region and in Welsh rugby.
“He has been an outstanding servant to both Newport RFC and the Dragons, both on and off the field where he has become a role model for the both the old and the young.
“His commitment to both clubs has been massive and he really is a valued member of the clubs after dedicating over ten years them.
“We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
